Cape Town is having a bit of a moment (again) – but this time it’s not because of its spectacular scenery or world-class culinary offering (although that’s all still very much in place), but thanks to its new status as a global art player, following the opening of the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa). The building’s jaw-dropping architecture and vast collection of contemporary art puts it on par with the likes of Tate Modern and MoMA; but what many don’t know, however, is that MOCCA is only the cherry on top of an intriguing art scene that’s been thriving for years. From museum-worthy modern pieces to urban street art, let us introduce you to the Mother City’s ever-evolving creative stage…
Zeitz MOCAA
Over 100 galleries, spread out over nine floors in an old grain silo, and housing the world’s largest 21st century art collection from Africa and its Diaspora, Zeitz MOCAA is an ambitious project if ever there was one. There have been grumbles over its name (entrepreneur and driving force Jochen Zeitz being German), and the fact that it was a British star architect, Thomas Heatherwick, who was tasked with turning the location into a high-tech cultural space – but no one can dispute that the result is nothing short of spectacular. The cathedral-like atrium is an architectural marvel and worth the entrance fee alone. Having said that, do yourself a favour and purchase one of the amazingly-priced annual memberships – you’ll want to go back again and again.
Silo District
With Zeitz MOCAA came the creation of a whole new district at the V&A Waterfront, in what used to be a cultural wasteland. Trevyn and Julian McGowan, pioneers of South Africa’s art and design scene, are one of the Silo District’s most prominent tenants, with a 450-square-metre flagship design destination that includes a concept store, a studio range of furniture, and the Southern Guild Gallery, showcasing collectible, limited-edition design and art. It’s definitely worth a visit when in the area – and a great place to get that handmade gift you were looking for.
Unsurprisingly, the hotels surrounding MOCAA are all running with the art theme. Sitting atop the museum, the elegant Silo Hotel not only offers private tours of MOCAA, but is something of an art gallery in itself, thanks to owner Liz Biden’s impressive private collection. New hotspot Radisson RED also features a host of art works within its trendy walls. Not strictly speaking in the Silo District but just around the corner is the One&Only Cape Town – guests can book art tours hosted by renowned art dealer João Ferreira, who really knows his way around Cape Town’s art galleries.
Art Galleries
Talking of which – Cape Town boasts a number of art galleries that have been instrumental in boosting the hype around the city’s burgeoning art scene. Art fans should definitely make time to visit contemporary stalwarts such as the Stevenson and Goodman galleries, as well as exciting new kids on the block, including Smac and whatiftheworld.
Street Art
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of Cape Town’s emergence as an innovative art hub is its thriving street art scene – and the best way to experience it is with a local guide. Hosted by the charming Bongani Ngwenya, the Maboneng Township Art Tour not only takes in a selection of street art, but also gives you access to artists’ houses. Starting at the Guga S’thebe Culture Centre in Langa (where you should definitely make time for a flat white from the Kaffa Hoist Café), Bongani will take you past Instagram-worthy graffiti murals and into several ‘home galleries’ in Langa and neighbouring Gugulethu. The tour gives a fascinating insight into the socio-economic and historical conditions that inspire these local artists.
Back in central Cape Town, the hip suburb of Woodstock is the playground of Juma Mkwela, an uber-knowledgeable local guide who takes visitors on a 90-minute walking tour of the area and its thought-provoking and compelling street art. Behind the gloss of Woodstock’s trendy restaurants, cafés and offices lies an impoverished community – the purpose of Juma’s tour is to highlight a sense of community.
Bikes & Art
Last but not least, if you’re tired of walking, hop on two wheels instead and explore Cape Town’s CBD on an Art & Bikes Tour, courtesy of Bikes ‘n Wines (yes, they also offer wine tours – but that’s a different story). Starting from the &Bikes Café and Cycle Boutique, the half day tour takes in a mix of local street art and architectural gems – and it covers around 12km, so you’ll get a bit of a workout in too.
